Others

Others

Safari

Safari – a must for each Kenya-HolidayKenya is famous for its wonderful wildlife. Wide parts of Kenya’s nature is protected by National Parks where the big five can be seen in their natural environment. With a little luck, the Kilimanjaro can be seen from Tsavo West during good weather.The two biggest National Parks, Tsavo East and Tsavo West, are only two hours away by car. That makes 1-day trips possible, but both Parks have camps where you can comfortably stay over night. We recommend the Tarhi Camp in Tsavo East. This camp has very nice tents with western comfort at a good price level. Furthermore it is located next to a water hole, thus enabling you to see drinking animals in the evening.

Safaris can be booked directly with Walter:-2 days Safari (Tsavo East or West)-350€ euro per person including park entry and overnight stay

Nature

Nature

Haller Park

Beside the classical safari, Kenya’s nature can also be enjoyed during a walk through Haller Park (Bamburi Nature Trail). In 1959, Mombasa’s cement factory assigned the tropical scientist Rene Haller the task of replenishing the flora and fauna in the mining areas. This was the start of the Haller Park which has become home to many animals like giraffes, crocodiles, zebras, hippos and the famous giant tortoises. This makes Haller Park ideal for a trip with the whole family.

Mombasa’s South Beaches

In addition to Haller Park, it is worthwhile to spend one day at Mombasa’s beaches at the south coast e.g. Diani Beach. The picturesque beaches are less overrun with tourists and the trip can be combined with dinner at the unique Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant. The restaurant is located in a 10 meter deep cave which is more than 100.000 years old. Especially in the night, this restaurant offers a magnificent atmosphere.

Shimba HillsShimba Hills is a small National Park that is also located along the south coast and has its own elephant sanctuary. As a tip: (For those up for a bit of a hike) Visit the Sheldrick Falls in Shimba Hills..

Mangrove Forest

Another scenic spot is the nature reserve Arobuke Soboke Forest. It is a mangrove forest between Watamu and Malindi, 1,5 hours away by car.

Wasini Island

To explore the underwater world, snorkeling is possible at almost every place along the coast. For a special experience, a 2-day-tour to Wasini Island is recommendable. The trip takes you to Shimoni, a former slave village (2 hours by car) from where you will be escorted to the island on a 10min boat ride. This excursion is ideal if you wish to get away from the hustle and bustle of the hotel and disconnect. Your day will consist of snorkeling or diving excursions and a freshly prepared sea-food buffet on return to the camp. A possible recommendation is the Pili Pipa Dhow.

Sports

SportsMany small water sport bases along Mombasa’s north coast offer all types of water sports:

water skiing, wakeboarding, jetski rides

snorceling, diving,

sailing, surfing, kite-surfing

Links: Barracuda Diving Blue Marin Diving Pepponi Diving

Work-OutMost hotels have tennis-, spash courts and a gym. Jogging along the beach or in Haller Park is also possible. The jogging route through Haller Park comes with the potential sighting of animals living in the forest (e.g. Monkeys, Deer, Dick Dick etc.).

Go-Cart

Fun for the whole family: Mombasa Go-Cart

Golf

One of Africa’s best Golf courses only 30min away from Mtwapa with a wonderful view: Vipingo Ridge

Culture and History

Fort Jesus

A visit in the Portuguese fortress reveals a wide view in the history of Mombasa and East Africa. It was built in 1593, five years after Vasco Da Gama was in Mombasa for the first time. After a short period of takeover by the Chief of Mombasa, the Portuguese were able to defend the Fort until 1698. During this time the Fort was besieged continuously. After that time the garrison changed between the native Zimba people, Arabians from the Oman, the Sultan of Oman and Zanzibar and the British. The Fort was used as a prison until the first half of the 20th century.

Mombasa’s Old-Town

Next to Fort Jesus, Mombasa’s old-town invites for a walk. The style of the houses is influenced by Portuguese and Arabs and reflects Mombasa’s turbulent history.

For a taste of Kenya’s tribal life styles: Ngomongo Villages

Ngomongo Villages is a sample village where families of different African tribes live together. It gives an overview about all Kenyan tribes and also shows the differences in their cultural life. The tribes still have a big influence in Kenya. Many people on the countryside live according to their traditional roots.

Slave RuinsA dark chapter in Kenya’s history is represented by the many slave ruins: Shimoni Ruins, Jumba Ruins, Watamu Ruins and Mtwapa Ruins. Mtwapa Ruins are not far away from the Fishing Base.

Dhow Cruise

The Arabians brought a new type of ship to Kenya during their time of conquering: the dhows. These ships were used for trading and ensured the infrastructure of the Arabian conquerors. Dhow Cruises combined with acrobatic shows and dinner are a great evening program.